Maui is the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic and adventurous honeymoon. In fact, it was named North America’s top honeymoon spot in 2020 by the World Travel Awards.
From exploring the island’s breathtaking natural wonders, such as waterfalls and beaches, to embarking on thrilling road trips and snorkelling adventures, there’s something for everyone. With so much to do and see, each day of your Maui honeymoon can be filled with unique and unforgettable experiences.
And, if you and your partner are foodies, you’ll particularly love your time on Maui. The island’s cuisine is a diverse blend of cultural influences and flavours, reflecting its unique history and abundant natural resources.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious resort to relax and unwind after the wedding or an opportunity to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty, this comprehensive guide has all the information you need to plan the perfect Maui romantic getaway. So, keep reading for some great ideas on where to stay, eat, and play …
STAY: Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
Cradled by two golden beaches in the exclusive southwest enclave of Wailea, the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui features incredible Pacific Ocean vistas, top-notch cuisine, and thoughtful design. The 22-acre property offers a choice of 547 guest rooms, each with a private lanai (terrace) and all the mod-cons. Honeymooners will love the new Sundeck suites and their extra-large lanais, with the ground-floor design offering easy access to the pools and beach path.
The architecture here really won us over — think low-rise accommodation rather than rooms housed in towers — as did the superb Mandara Spa (my Lomi Lomi massage was best-ever), and the warm, unpretentious vibe.
The Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui offers a variety of dining options to satisfy any craving. For a romantic and unforgettable experience, couples can indulge in a private beach dinner with stunning sunset views and a five-course meal. The signature restaurant, Humble Market Kitchin by Roy Yamaguchi, is a must-try for its fusion of Hawaiian and international flavors. KAPA Bar & Grill provides a more casual atmosphere with open-air seating, while Whale’s Tale offers smoothies and cocktails with a beachside view. For a taste of local cuisine, the food truck serves up poke bowls and shaved ice. And for those who love poolside lounging, tropical cocktails and Starbucks coffee can be enjoyed while soaking up the sun or relaxing in a private cabana. No matter what your dining preference, the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui has something to satisfy every appetite.
Related: The Best Things for Couples to do in Maui
Extra tips? Book a coveted ‘floating’ cabana at the adults-only infinity Maluhia Pool or channel your inner child zooming down Maui’s longest water slide. Adventure is also at your fingertips with swimming, snorkelling, turtle tours, Hawaiian outrigger canoeing, and national park helicopter tours.
Related Article: Read Our Comprehensive Review on Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui here.
Top 10 Things to Do on Your Maui Honeymoon
Whether you want to indulge in delicious cuisine, relax on the beach, or hike incredible trails, Maui has something for everyone. Here are our top 10 things to include on your Maui honeymoon itinerary.
Snorkel the Molokini Crater
The crescent-shaped island of Molokini resides three miles off Maui’s south-western shore and is actually the rim of an ancient volcanic crater. A snorkelling excursion is the best way to discover the magical world beneath the waves. Swim hand in hand while spotting colourful fish, live coral, and graceful turtles
Brave the Road to Hana
One for the road-trippers — and thrill-seekers! The charming township of Hana is tiny but the Road to Hana is epic. This full-day drive along Maui’s rugged east coast started as a king’s trail, then became a sugarcane route, snaking its way across the north-east of the island in a series of narrow twists and turns punctuated by one-lane covered bridges (over 45 of them!).
The scenic journey features plenty of memorable stops including waterfalls, lookouts, botanical gardens, and roadside markets. A highlight for us was the Wai’anapanapa State Park, home to walking trails, lava tubes, coastline views, and a stunning black-sand beach (good to know: park reservations are required here). Not ready to tackle this roller-coaster road trip yourselves? Join a guided tour so you can cling to one another in the back seat for those heart-stopping turns.
Related: If you’re living overseas and dreaming of a Hawaiian wedding, don’t worry – it’s possible! Great Destination Weddings, Australia’s top destination wedding guide, offers a detailed guide on how to get married in Hawaii.
Stargaze at Haleakala National Park
One for the star-crossed lovers. Named for the dormant volcano Haleakala (meaning ‘house of the sun’), the vast Haleakala National Park in Upcountry Maui is one of the island’s most popular attractions. Many make a sunrise pilgrimage to the summit, which rises 10,000 feet into the clouds, but after dark is a special way to experience the magic on a Maui Stargazing tour. After ascending the winding road to the summit district and soaking up a dazzling sunset, delve into the cosmos on a guided telescope tour. We couldn’t believe how cold it gets up here (wait — this is Hawai’i, right?). But don’t worry, warm outerwear and hot beverages are provided so you can enjoy the planets, nebulae, galaxies, star clusters, and shooting stars in cosy comfort. Awesome.
Head off the beaten path to Pa’ia
Swap Maui’s main tourist spots for something a little more under-the-radar in Pa’ia. Once a plantation town during the sugarcane industry heyday, this northern township is now home to art galleries, boutiques and eateries that radiate fun 1960s California vibes. Stop by the colourful shops, grab a bite at the Pa’ia Fishmarket or Choice Health Bar, and head on to the ‘windsurfing capital of the world’ Ho’okipa Beach to watch the action. In summer, H.A. Baldwin Park Beach and its baby beach lagoon also make a refreshing pitstop
Take home a ni’ihau shell lei
If you’re ready to splurge on a statement piece that will forever remind you of your honeymoon in Hawai’i, look for this iconic local jewellery made from precious pupu ‘o ni’ihau shells. The artform is unique to the mysterious ‘forbidden island’ of Ni’ihau (off Maui) but the jewellery can be found at selected shops across the islands.
Visit a local distillery
Located in the central upcountry, the Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery is an 80-acre organic farm and distillery offering tours and vodka tastings for visitors. You’ll learn about the agricultural processes used in Hawaii and get to enjoy a quality shot of vodka while taking in the stunning views from a volcano’s ridge overlooking the coast.
Feast at Mama’s Fish House
Lovers, you simply can’t skip a trip to Mama’s Fish House in Pài’a. But just know, it’s so iconic that you’ll need to book up to six months in advance! Nope, not a typo. Try the waitlist if you’re travelling soon but lock those reservations in now if you can. The food is incredible and presented with such creativity — think seared and sliced fresh-caught octopus, macadamia-nut crab cakes, and lobster tails, with beef filets and short ribs for the landlubbers. Whatever is on the seasonal menu, rest assured, there’s a reason travellers will do just about anything to dine at this beachfront beauty! Our tip? Leave room for the Insta-famous Polynesian Black Pearl: Manoa chocolate mousse served in a seashell cookie. So good!
Paia Fishmarket
For a guaranteed fresh catch, drop by the Pai’a Fishmarket. As well as delicious fresh fish, seafood and fries you’ll find equally yum tacos, burgers, and salad. Love their vibe? You’ll also find outlets in Lahaina and Kihei.
Say aloha to a lu’au
Attending a lu’au is one of the easiest ways to connect with the local culture and will forever fill your hearts with precious island memories. The engaging blend of song, dance, storytelling, and feasting kicks off at sunset, with festivities lasting well into the night. Sip tropical cocktails with your toes in the sand and immerse yourselves in the spectacular Hawaiian culture. Many resorts offer a regular lu’au evening, and we highly recommend booking at least one.
Hike the Pipiwai Trail
Experience the stunning Pipiwai Trail on Maui’s Kipahulu District along the scenic Road to Hana in Haleakala National Park. This approximately 6.5 km round-trip trail takes hikers through a breathtaking bamboo forest, over footbridges and boardwalks, and past two magnificent waterfalls – Makahiku Falls and the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The trail also offers views of the ‘Ohe’o Stream Gulch, known as the “Seven Sacred Pools.” Although the Pipiwai Trail is moderately challenging, with an 800-foot elevation gain, its natural wonders and beauty make it worthwhile. Plan for up to three hours to immerse yourself in the lush tropical vegetation fully.
Related: Still deciding on which Hawaiian island you’ll spend your honeymoon on? Read our comprehensive guide to Honeymooning in Hawaii where we look at several of the top islands for two.
The Best Time to Honeymoon in Maui
Maui is a great honeymoon destination all year round, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, or October. During these months, you can still enjoy good weather, but with lower costs and fewer crowds. If you don’t mind the heat, August and September are the hottest months with temperatures reaching up to 33°C (91°F). Keep in mind that the summer months (June-September) are the busiest and most expensive. Maui has a tropical climate with a hot season from June to October and a cooler, rainy season from December to March. During the rainy season, temperatures are slightly cooler, and there is heavy rain in the mountains, with short showers elsewhere, although most of the rainfall occurs at night.
Good to know
Hawai‘i Tourism Oceania is the official tourism board responsible for the promotion of the Hawaiian Islands in Australia and New Zealand. Hawai’i offers six beautiful islands to visit. From north to south: Kaua‘i, O’ahu, Moloka‘i, Maui, Lãna’i and the Island of Hawai‘i/Big Island. No matter which you visit, you’ll be overwhelmed by its beauty, diversity, and the warmth of its people. gohawaii.com/au
The writer flew with Hawaiian Airlines, the hometown carrier of Hawai’i for over 93 years. Flying five times a week from Sydney to Honolulu, with 130 connections daily to neighbouring islands, guests can experience the generous hospitality of the Hawaiian Islands with award-winning service, complimentary meals, beers and cocktails. Flights depart Sydney in the evening, arriving mid-morning in Honolulu. The Airbus A330 flying Sydney-Honolulu offers lie-flat Business Class, Main Cabin and Hawaiian Airlines’ popular Extra Comfort seating with more legroom, priority services and additional amenities. Visit hawaiianairlines.com.au for more information or to book.
Related Article: The Ultimate Kaua’i. Honeymoon Guide: Everything You Need to Know
